Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents across North Carolina. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to devastating consequences. For accident victims, understanding the steps to take after a distracted driving accident might protect their recovery and potential compensation claim.
Common examples of distracted driving
Distracted driving refers to any activity that can take the driver’s attention away from operating a vehicle safely. There are numerous driving distractions that could threaten general road safety, including:
- Using mobile devices while driving
- Eating and drinking
- Using in-vehicle technology while driving
- Grooming while driving
- Interacting irresponsibly with passengers
- Adjusting vehicle controls
Along with the above-mentioned possibilities, even a brief moment of distraction can cause the driver to miss traffic signals, pedestrians crossing the road or sudden stops.
What compensation might be available?
The impact of a distracted driving accident on a victim could range from immediate physical injuries to life-altering consequences. Depending on the circumstances of the incident, injured victims might be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Costs of medical care, surgeries and medication
- Lost wages: Any income lost during recovery
- Ongoing and future medical expenses: Costs such as ongoing and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and future treatment needs
- Pain and emotional distress: Compensation for the physical and emotional toll on victims’ lives
- Property damage: Compensation could cover repair costs, towing expenses, rental vehicle costs, and damage to personal property inside the vehicle
- Reduced earning capacity: Future income losses resulting from the accident
North Carolina has a very strict contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, an injured person who is found even partially responsible for an accident could be barred from recovering compensation. Therefore, it is important to carefully document the circumstances of the crash and avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted later. Insurance companies might examine whether an accident victim contributed to minimize or deny claims.
Seeking fair compensation
Distracted driving accidents can leave victims facing significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Understanding legal rights and seeking legal guidance could help victims make informed decisions and protect their ability to pursue fair compensation.
